SHARE MI ROADS

Bicyclists are involved in less than 1% of all traffic crashes. Proportionally, however, they represent a greater number of fatalities than any other group of roadway users. This is why it is especially important for drivers to always pass bicyclists at a safe distance and yield to them before making turns.

Each year approximately 2000 bicyclists are injured in crashes in Michigan, with approximately 25 of these crashes resulting in fatalities. While engineering improvements implemented as a result of Complete Streets will help create a safer environment for bicyclists who use Michigan roads, more must be done in regards to education to help drivers better understand how to safely interact with bicyclists.

Due to time constraints within the existing drivers education curriculum, young drivers currently receive limited training on how to safely share the road with bicyclists. The Share MI Roads campaign is a new effort focused on developing educational resources for drivers, bicyclists, drivers education instructors, and law enforcement about reducing dangerous interactions between motorists and bicyclists. The campaign will work to explain and publicize the rights and responsibilities of both drivers and bicyclists, with an aim at fostering goodwill and reducing injuries and fatalities across Michigan.